This week, we head to the midwest for a great weekend of racing! The ARCA Menards Series, NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, and NASCAR Cup Series will all be on track at Kansas Speedway. Saturday’s doubleheader looks like it might be dodging raindrops, but Sunday looks fantastic for race fans. If you are going to the races, have a wonderful time! Kansas Speedway is a racetrack I have always wanted to go to, maybe next year.
ATTRACTIONS
- If you are looking to stay close to the racetrack for some fun and entertainment, Legends Outlets is across the street from the racetrack and is a winning idea. There are over 70 stores, a movie theater and more than 20 restaurants to choose from. You could easily spend all your free time less than a half mile from the racetrack!
- If you want to delight the kids, head 40 minutes west into the Missouri side of Kansas City to check out the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium.
(Photo Credit: Bill Arimborgo, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium | Facebook) With over 200 acres to explore and over 8,000 animals to see, you don’t want to miss this top-ranked zoo experience that has been dubbed “a journey around the world.”
- If you are a baseball fan, the Kansas City Royals are playing at home against the Texas Rangers. Load up the family and friends and hit the ballpark to see some great MLB. There are tickets available for Friday and Saturday night games and Kauffman Stadium is only about 30 minutes from the racetrack.
RESTAURANTS
There are literally dozens of restaurants within 10 minutes of the racetrack but if you want to venture out behind the immediate area here a couple options for you.
- Buck Tui BBQ in nearby Overland Park, Kansas is a fusion of Kansas City and Thailand. I was told they have the best garlic pork ribs and the Thai brisket sandwich is a do not miss dish. Also highly suggested was the Pineapple Fried Rice.
(Photo Credit: Buck Tui BBQ | Facebook) - If you are looking to go full on hog, Slap’s BBQ is where you want to dine. This award-winning restaurant is near downtown but still on the Kansas side, so less than 20 minutes from the racetrack.
(Photo Credit: https://slapsbbqkc.com/) The combo plates give you the best bang for your buck and the cattleman came highly recommended for its combo of brisket, burnt ends and sausage. Make sure to get a side of baked potato casserole.
- Finally, located a little south of the racetrack, in Shawnee, Pegah’s Family Restaurant is the best all around homestyle place to eat. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner and have daily specials. You can fill up with a breakfast skillet before heading to the track, hit them up later in the day for a homestyle dinner, or choose any one of their numerous sandwiches. Whether you are eating alone or have 10 people with you, there is something for everyone on their menu.
Very good and informative article.